Acupuncture isn’t just for people anymore. It can be a valuable tool for some pained pets, too.

Veterinarians with very specific training perform animal acupuncture. They carefully insert needles at acupuncture points, where nerves and blood vessels converge. That stimulates both circulation and the nervous system, leading to the release of chemicals that reduce inflammation and pain. Muscles become relaxed at the acupuncture points and in other areas of the body.

Veterinary acupuncture can be especially helpful for animals experiencing pain and inflammation from conditions such as cancer, arthritis, trauma and degenerative joint disease. Bonus: It won’t interfere with medications or supplements and doesn’t cause any nasty side effects.

For suffering animals, acupuncture gets straight to the point: relief!